“Didn’t you sleep with my sister the first night y’all met?” I scan my eyes around the arena. “In this exact place?”

Noah belly laughs when Fisher’s face turns red. “In fact, it is the three-year anniversary of our one-night stand. I told him we should recreate our first time. Wanna babysit Poppy for the night?”

When she waggles her brows, I mimic a gag reaction.

“Hard pass. And my relationship is none of your business.”

“I’m not judging, trust me. I like her. She’s pretty and seems nice. But I’m not sure why she’s interested in you, though.”

“Ouch!” I shove her shoulder, causing her to bump into Fisher. “Just for that, I’mnotbabysitting so y’all can’t get laid. Actually, I’ll crank my music to keep her up longer.”

Noah shoots me a death glare. “You wouldn’t dare. I know where you live.”

“Pfft. I know where you live, too.”

Our parents stop by with Mallory for a quick check-in. She pouts about not being allowed in the VIP area, but since she’s a minor, she can’t stay.

“In a few years, kiddo.” I grin. “And then you’ll be drivin’ us here.”

“Not me if you’re the one teachin’ her,” Noah teases.

“I’m gonna be a fabulous driver, thank you,” Mallory argues. “I’ve already memorized the student driver handbook for next semester.”

“If you can drive a four-wheeler and tractor like a pro, I have no doubt you’ll be fine with a truck,” I say.

“Thank you.” She nods firmly.

“Kiss ass,” Noah mutters to me.

The emcee finally announces that after dragging the arena and setting out the barrels, the event is ready to start with the junior division.

“I’m gonna grab a fresh beer and more snacks. Want anything?”

“See if you can find Magnolia and then scold her for being late,” Noah says.

Chuckling, I give her a mock salute. “I’ll get right on that.”

While I hang out in the VIP area, I grab my phone and text Cecilia to check she made it back safely.

Cecilia

Yeah, I’m home.

Landen

Glad to hear it. Can we talk when I get back?

Cecilia

Sure.

She’s pissed, and I understand why, but she’d be even more angry with me if I hadn’t told her the truth sooner.

By the time I return to the VIP section, I notice the barrels are more spaced out now.

“Is her division next?” I ask, standing behind Noah and Magnolia—who finally showed up. They’re right in front of the railing now with their ridiculous sign that readsRide that horse like you stole him!

“Yep, she’ll be the second runner,” Noah says. “Get ready to scream your guts out.”